How Can Longhorns Honor Veterans Today and Every Day

The solemn, brass notes of "Taps" echoed across the Frank Denius Veterans Memorial Plaza on Thursday as Longhorns gathered to honor those who have served our nation.

The University of Texas at Austin marked Veterans Day with its annual Wreath Laying Ceremony - a tradition led by the Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium Veterans Committee. The stadium, which celebrated its 100^th anniversary last year, was originally dedicated to Texans who fought and died in World War I. Today, it commemorates U.S. veterans of all wars.

"The legacy of generations of patriots who dedicated their lives to the service of our country makes us strong and resilient as a nation," said Lawson W. Magruder III, chairman of the Veterans Committee.

Longhorns have long answered the call to defend the United States of America, and our proud tradition of service continues today. UT is currently home to more than 600 student veterans. Many current staff and faculty members and thousands of Texas Exes have worn the nation's uniform. UT is ranked the No. 1 university in Texas for veterans by U.S. News & World Report, thanks to a wide array of organizations, programs and services dedicated to supporting and uplifting veterans.

This Veterans Day, we asked three veterans in our Longhorn community to share how we can better honor all who have served - today and every day.

Lawson W. Magruder III, Lieutenant General, U.S. Army, Retired
Chairman, DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium Veterans Committee

"It's all about preparedness and the strength of bringing in young men and women who are ready to sacrifice for our nation and defend the Constitution," said Magruder. "Whatever you can do to help recruiting, I think, is a wonderful way to honor those who have served our nation."

Magruder is a decorated Army veteran, proud Longhorn and lifelong leader. A Distinguished Military Graduate of UT's Army ROTC program, he led a highly successful 32-year career in the U.S. Army and retired as a lieutenant general in 2001.

As chairman of the Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium Veterans Committee, Magruder helps preserve the stadium's legacy as a living memorial to all U.S. veterans. Under his leadership, the committee has focused on recognizing the Longhorn alumni who have served our nation, including those who paid the ultimate price. In 2019, the committee dedicated three plaques honoring the University's Medal of Honor recipients. Last year, it unveiled another plaque with the names of the 664 Longhorn alumni who perished in World War II.

This Veterans Day, Magruder encouraged veterans to share positive stories about their service to connect more Americans with the value of military service and inspire the next generation to serve.

David Lessenberry, OSCS (SW/AW), U.S. Navy, Retired
Assistant Director of Veteran and Military-Affiliated Services, The University of Texas at Austin

"Veterans Day is a great time to recognize the service and sacrifice of our Longhorn Veterans, but meaningful support should extend throughout the year," said David Lessenberry, UT's assistant director of veteran and military-affiliated services. "One of the most impactful things Longhorns can do is take the time to learn about the experiences of our military-affiliated students, whether that's attending events, asking questions or simply listening."

Helping people has always been part of Lessenberry's DNA. He served for 26 years in the U.S. Navy before beginning another career supporting veterans at UT. A native Texan, he earned a degree in international relations and global studies at UT after retiring from active duty.

While studying at UT, Veteran and Military Affiliated Services (VMAS) helped Lessenberry adjust to civilian life. He found a supportive community within VMAS and went on to create a peer mentoring program to support other incoming military students and veterans. Now the assistant director of VMAS, Lessenberry continues to create spaces where Longhorn Veterans feel supported, understood and connected to other Longhorns.

"I often joke that the traditional student can help a veteran with that math they haven't had to do in years, while the veteran can offer guidance on life questions a student might not feel comfortable asking a parent," Lessenberry said.

Laurianne Rodriguez, Captain, U.S. Air Force, Retired
Program Manager for the Veteran Spouse Network, Institute for Military and Veteran Family Wellness

"Veterans offer a unique perspective," said Laurianne Rodriguez of the Veteran Spouse Network. "So do their families. Please take the time to listen to their stories. Military service can be lonely and isolating. The stories may not be easy to hear, and their service can come at a price that can impact the entire family."

Rodriguez was commissioned in the U.S. Air Force as a personnel officer in 2002 and served for four years on active duty before retiring as a captain. She went on to mentor military families across Texas while stabilizing her family through frequent moves and supporting her husband's 20-year Air Force career.

Since 2021, Rodriguez has served as program manager for the Veteran Spouse Network within UT's Institute for Military and Veteran Family Wellness. There, she leads educational programs and manages a team of 40 peer leaders who support military and veteran spouses nationwide. Peer support groups provide a space for spouses and family members to share their experiences and connect with others who understand their challenges. In 2023, Rodriguez received the prestigious Yellow Rose of Texas award in recognition of her service across the state.

Rodriguez invited Longhorns to take advantage of the opportunities offered at UT to learn from those with a military background. With less than 1% of the U.S. population serving on active duty, it is more important than ever to listen to the men and women who have served.